Published: July 3, 2024
(Photo courtesy of Ford)
In a powerful display of support for military families, Veterans, and survivors, Ford Motor Company recently teamed up with Blue Star Families’ Do Your Part initiative to host the first-ever “Proud to Honor: Bronco Off-Roadeo.” Held against the picturesque backdrop of Horseshoe Bay, Texas, this event brought 150 participants together for an exhilarating off-roading experience.
Representatives from esteemed organizations such as Guitars 4 Vets, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), Travis Manion Foundation, Team Rubicon, and Ford’s Veteran Employee Resource Group joined us. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs also provided valuable support and resources on-site. Beyond a day of adventure, these partnerships underscored a shared commitment to community building and camaraderie.
Building Community Through Adventure
Recent findings from the annual Blue Star Families Military Family Lifestyle Survey highlight a crucial insight: military families and Veterans who feel connected to their communities report higher well-being and are more likely to recommend military service. Inspired by these insights, Ford aimed to strengthen community ties by inviting Veterans, military families, and survivors to participate in their Bronco Off-Roadeo adventure driving school.
Participants honed their off-road driving skills driving Ford Broncos under the guidance of experienced trail leaders like Brian Harris, an Army and Air Force Veteran who now serves as Senior Lead Trail Guide for the Bronco Off-Roadeo.
Beyond the thrill of being behind the wheel, the Bronco Off-Roadeo became a platform for celebrating service and fostering meaningful connections. Military and civilian attendees forged lasting memories amidst the scenic Texas hill country. Jenny Akin, a member of Blue Star Families and surviving spouse of Green Beret Cooper Akin, shared her heartfelt experience: “This shared adventure deepened my bond with our community and helped me rediscover a part of myself that I thought was lost with my husband.”
Jenny Akin, a Blue Star Families member and former Chief of Staff, celebrates after climbing a rock — proving she can overcome any obstacle. (Photo courtesy of Ford.)
Ford’s Commitment to the Military Community
Ford’s involvement in the Do Your Part coalition underscores its ongoing dedication to supporting military families. Led by Blue Star Families and supported by Craig Newmark and craig newmark philanthropies, this initiative aims to enhance resilience and foster community support among military families.
Kathy Roth-Douquet, CEO and co-founder of Blue Star Families, emphasized the significance of this initiative: “At Blue Star Families, we call on iconic American brands to support our military families and the common defense. It truly takes a village! Ford’s Bronco Off-Roadeo underscores the positive outcomes possible when we all work together.”
Ford leads by example, prioritizing the well-being and connection of the military community, setting a benchmark for other companies to follow. To discover more about Ford’s military commitment and the remarkable “Proud to Honor: Bronco Off-Roadeo” experience, go here.
Interested in joining the next Bronco Off-Roadeo adventure? Join the Blue Star Families Neighborhood to reserve your spot and stay informed about future opportunities like this one.
Posted In: Do Your Part